Former CEO Bobby Kotick's extraordinary claim suggests lawsuit against Microsoft's acquisition of Activision was only filed to secretly help Embracer
Eurogamer • • business
Key Points:
- Former Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick claims a lawsuit opposing Microsoft's $67.8 billion acquisition of the company was intended to help Embracer Group expand its presence in California at Activision's expense.
- The lawsuit, filed by Swedish pension fund Sjunde AP-Fonden (AP7) in 2022, alleges the sale was rushed to avoid sexual misconduct charges against Kotick during his tenure.
- Kotick denies these claims and accuses Embracer of being a secret collaborator behind the lawsuit, aiming to hinder Activision's growth and talent recruitment.
- Embracer Group has denied any involvement or need for assistance from AP7 in competing with Activision.
- The controversy follows broader legal and cultural issues at Activision Blizzard, including allegations of a toxic workplace environment and criticism of Kotick's handling of harassment claims.